Audley Harrison to keep purse following David Haye fight farce

Heavyweight boxer Audley Harrison is to keep his share of the money from his disastrous bout against David Haye, the sport’s governing body has confirmed.

In November’s hotly-anticipated fight against World Champion David Haye, Harrison was comprehensively beaten inside three rounds.

During the disappointingly short bout, Harrison landed just one punch – prompting wide criticism from fans who paid to watch the fight in Manchester and on pay-per-view TV.

Officials at the British Boxing Board of Control have the right to withhold a percentage of the purse if they feel the fighter did not put significant effort into the fight.

Now, after the 39-year-old was interviewed by the stewards at the BBBC, the body confirmed it won’t be taking any further action and that Harrison will be able to keep his share of the purse – thought to be in the region of £1.5 million.

Robert Smith, general secretary for the BBBC said: “The Stewards of the British Boxing Board of Control having interviewed Mr. Audley Harrison MBE with regard to his contest against Mr. David Haye at the MEN Arena, Manchester on Saturday, 13 November 2010 have accepted his explanation and will not be taking the matter any further.”

Champ David Haye faces a mandatory challenge against Ruslan Chagaev before hoping to fight the Klitschko brothers as he attempts to unify the world heavyweight title before retiring in October.